The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is inviting public and industry feedback on the potential introduction of radio local area networks (RLANs) and wide-area wireless broadband (WA WBB) services in the upper 6 GHz band (6425–7125 MHz). This initiative is part of ACMA’s draft Five-year Spectrum Outlook for 2024-2029, which addresses significant international developments in this frequency band.
Globally, many countries are adopting or considering RLANs and WA WBB services in the upper 6 GHz band. In Australia, the lower part of this band (5925–6425 MHz) is already allocated for RLAN use, setting a precedent for potential expansion.
ACMA is seeking input on several key areas:
Proposed Services: Types of services that could be delivered using the upper 6 GHz band.
User Benefits: How these services will benefit end users.
Service Demand: Expected demand for these services.
The consultation paper, available on ACMA’s website, outlines various planning options and discusses potential enhancements to existing RLAN arrangements in the broader 6 GHz band, including the introduction of standard-power devices.
To support this review, ACMA has imposed Spectrum Embargo 81 on the upper 6 GHz band, halting the issuance of new apparatus licenses in the band.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit their feedback by 5 pm (AEST) on Tuesday, July 16th, 2024. Submissions can be made by clicking the ‘Upload submission’ button on the consultation page of ACMA’s website.
This consultation is a crucial step in ensuring Australia’s spectrum management remains innovative and responsive to global trends, aiming to enhance wireless services for a wide range of users.
Type Approval Impacted? Yes
Spectrum Impacted? Yes
Imports Impacted? No